TNAG-0543-FCO40-638-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 109

SECRET UK EYES A

PR Line

21. The announcement of the Minister's visit has

intentionally been couched in very general terms. It

is suggested that he should not make any statement to the

Press on arrival in Hong Kong; but there will probably have

to be a Press Conference at some stage. If the negotiations

have been successful this can be used to announce the

conclusion of a new agreement.

If not, the line will

have to be that while in Hong Kong the Minister has had

preliminary discussions on a new defence agreement but

that no agreement has yet been concluded. The point

could be made that the existing agreement does not expire

until next Spring. The two sides have had a useful exchange

of views; the Minister is now going back to report to his

colleagues in Lon.on; and there will probably be further

talks in due course, The aim should be to play down any

hint of breakdown or crisis. The talks were only one reason

for the Minister's coming to Hong Kong: he has also been

visiting units in the garrison.

:

SECRET

UK EYES A